Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Georgia
Last updated:
Quick help now (Georgia)
If you are in danger or need urgent help, use these numbers right away:
- Call 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
- Call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). Press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
- Georgia Crisis & Access Line (mental health/substance use, 24/7): 1‑800‑715‑4225 — See the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities page: Get Help – DBHDD
- Adult Protective Services (report abuse, neglect, or exploitation): 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Option 3) — Details at Georgia DHS Adult Protective Services
- Georgia Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) for one‑on‑one help finding local services: 1‑866‑552‑4464 (follow the prompts) — Georgia ADRC
- Georgia SHIP (free Medicare counseling): 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Option 4) — Georgia SHIP
- Food, shelter, utilities, and local help: Dial 211 or search Find Help on 211.org
- DFCS Customer Contact Center (SNAP/Medicaid applications): 1‑877‑423‑4746 — Apply online at Georgia Gateway
- After a declared disaster: FEMA Helpline 1‑800‑621‑3362 — FEMA Individual Assistance
When you’re struggling to keep up with bills, explore a few financial assistance options that can offer immediate relief.
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Georgia Senior Emergency Assistance Checklist (PDF)
Print this one-page guide with key contacts, documents to gather, and emergency steps for seniors in Georgia.
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How to use this guide
- Start with the Emergency Help section if the need is urgent.
- If you are not sure where to begin, call the ADRC at 1‑866‑552‑4464 or visit Georgia ADRC.
- For SNAP, Medicaid, and cash/benefit applications, use Georgia Gateway or call DFCS at 1‑877‑423‑4746.
- Every claim and program in this guide links to an official source so you can verify details and apply with confidence.
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Emergency help first: what to do now
- Immediate danger or medical emergency: Call 911
- Thoughts of self-harm or emotional crisis: call 988 (24/7). Veterans can press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. See 988 Lifeline.
- Mental health or substance use crisis in Georgia: call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) at 1‑800‑715‑4225. See DBHDD – Access Services.
According to the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (2026), the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) continues to provide 24/7 mental-health and substance-use support throughout.
- Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult (at home or in a facility):Call Adult Protective Services at 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Select Option 3). See Georgia APS . For concerns about care in nursing homes or assisted living, contact the Georgia Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program (also reachable via 1-866-552-4464 ).
- No food today: Call 211 or your Area Agency on Aging through the ADRC at 1‑866‑552‑4464 . Ask about Meals on Wheels, consolidated meals, and emergency pantry referrals. See Meals on Wheels – Find Meals and Georgia ADRC .
- Facing shutoff for heat, cooling, or lights: ask about LIHEAP (energy bill help) via your local Community Action Agency. See Georgia DCA – LIHEAP.
- Note for 2026: For the 2026 program year, appointments for seniors (65+) opened on January 2, 2026 . General public appointments typically open in February. Check Georgia DCA – LIHEAP immediately as funds are first-come, first-served.
- Homeless or about to lose housing: Use HUD’s Resource Locator or Georgia 211 for shelters and Coordinated Entry. For comprehensive homeless services and housing search, see Georgia DCA – Homeless & Special Needs Housing and GeorgiaHousingSearch.org.
- Disaster just hit your area: Check GEMA/HS – Georgia Emergency Management and apply with FEMA at FEMA Individual Assistance.
If you have family in another region, check senior programs by state to see what’s available elsewhere.
Reality check: During high‑demand times (heat waves, storms, or end of month), programs can have waitlists. If one office cannot help, ask for a “warm handoff” to another provider. Keep notes of who you speak with, dates, and any case numbers.
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Table 1: Key emergency contacts for Georgia seniors
| Program | What it does | Phone | Official link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 911 | Police, fire, medical emergencies | 911 | Local services |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 24/7 emotional support; press 1 for Veterans | 988 | 988 Lifeline |
| GA Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) | 24/7 mental health/substance use help statewide | 1‑800‑715‑4225 | DBHDD – Access Services |
| Adult Protective Services | Report elder abuse, neglect, exploitation | 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Opt. 3) | Georgia APS |
| ADRC (Aging & Disability Resource Connection) | One‑stop for local aging services | 1‑866‑552‑4464 | Georgia ADRC |
| GA SHIP (Medicare counseling) | Free, unbiased Medicare help | 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Opt. 4) | Georgia SHIP |
| 211 Georgia | Local food, shelter, utility help | 211 | 211 – Find Help |
| DFCS (SNAP/Medicaid) | Apply, check case status | 1‑877‑423‑4746 | Georgia Gateway |
| VA Crisis Line | Veterans’ crisis support 24/7 | 988 then 1 | Veterans Crisis Line |
| FEMA Helpline | Disaster assistance for individuals | 1‑800‑621‑3362 | FEMA Individual Assistance |
Seniors with mobility or medical challenges may also qualify for disability assistance at the state or federal level.
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Georgia’s aging network: who does what
Beyond emergency aid, there are general support programs that help with food, health, and transportation.
- Division of Aging Services (DAS), Georgia DHS: Coordinates aging programs, elder protections, and the ADRC. See Georgia DHS – Aging Services.
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): 12 regional agencies that arrange meals, transportation, in‑home help, caregiver support, and more. Find yours via Georgia ADRC or the AAAs listed later in this guide.
- Department of Community Health (DCH): Runs Medicaid, including home‑ and community‑based services waivers and non‑emergency medical transportation. See Georgia DCH – Medicaid.
Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, call the ADRC at 1‑866‑552‑4464. They can screen you for multiple programs and refer you to your local AAA.
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Food and nutrition help
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SNAP (food stamps): Monthly benefit on an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors with limited income may qualify even if they own a home or car. Apply online at Georgia Gateway or learn more at DFCS – SNAP . SNAP is a federal program administered by DFCS.
According to the Georgia DFCS 2026 guidelines, the Senior SNAP program streamlines applications for adults 60 and older with fixed incomes. For the period ending September 30, 2026, the net monthly income limit is $1,305 for a household of one and $1,763 for a household of two.
- Home‑delivered and congregate meals: Meals on Wheels and senior center lunches are arranged by your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Start at Georgia ADRC or find providers at Meals on Wheels – Find Meals .
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf‑stable food boxes for eligible adults age 60+. For state contacts and local sites, see USDA’s directory at USDA FNS – CSFP State Contacts .
Note for 2026: Eligibility is generally set at 130% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines . In Georgia, two primary food banks (Atlanta Community Food Bank and Second Harvest of South Georgia) manage distribution to local agencies.
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce vouchers for eligible older adults (age 60+, income at or below 185% of poverty level).
2026 Season Update: The 2026 market season runs from May 1 to October 15, 2026 . Benefits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact your AAA via the Georgia ADRC early in the spring to get on the list.
Reality check: SNAP and CSFP have strict income and household rules. If you’re close to the limit or have high out‑of‑pocket medical costs (more than $35/month), ask DFCS about the Standard Medical Deduction , which can lower your countable income and increase your SNAP benefit amount. See DFCS – SNAP.
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Table 2: Food help at a glance
| Program | Who it’s for | What it covers | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (DFCS) | Low‑income households, including seniors | Monthly EBT for groceries | Apply at Georgia Gateway or call DFCS 1‑877‑423‑4746 |
| Meals on Wheels / Senior Centers | Older adults with limited mobility or income | Home‑delivered and congregate meals | Call ADRC 1‑866‑552‑4464 or use Find Meals |
| CSFP | Eligible adults 60+ | Monthly food box | See USDA CSFP state contacts and contact your AAA |
| SFMNP | Eligible older adults | Produce vouchers at farmers’ markets | Ask your AAA via Georgia ADRC |
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Housing and utilities
There are many senior housing programs that reduce rent or provide accessible units for older adults.
- Emergency shelter and homelessness services: Use HUD’s locator at HUD Resource Locator. Georgia’s Balance of State and local Continuums of Care coordinate shelters and housing intake; see Georgia DCA – Homeless & Special Needs Housing.
- Affordable rentals and accessible units: Search statewide listings at GeorgiaHousingSearch.org (supported by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs). Those struggling with housing costs can explore rental assistance for seniors to stay securely in their homes.
- LIHEAP (energy bills): Helps pay for heating/cooling bills and may prevent disconnection. Administered by Georgia DCA through Community Action Agencies. Learn how to apply at Georgia DCA – LIHEAP.
2026 Program Dates for Seniors (65+):
Heating Assistance: Applications for seniors opened December 1, 2025 .(General public opened Jan 2, 2026).
Cooling Assistance: Applications for seniors are scheduled to open April 1, 2026 . (General public opens May 1, 2026).
Note: Funds are first-come, first-served.Apply early at Georgia DCA – LIHEAP .
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free home energy improvements (insulation, sealing, HVAC) to lower bills. See GEFA – Weatherization Assistance Program.
- Eligibility Update: For 2026, the income limit is generally 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (approximately $31,920 for a single-person household). See GEFA – Weatherization Assistance Program.
- Emergency home repairs (rural): USDA Section 504 Home Repair helps very low‑income homeowners with 1% interest loans and grants for health/safety repairs.
- 2026 Limits:
- Maximum Loan: Up to $40,000 (20-year term, 1% fixed interest).
- Senior Grant: Homeowners age 62+ who cannot repay a loan may qualify for a $10,000 lifetime grant.
- Combined: Loan and grant can be combined for up to $50,000 in assistance.
- 2026 Limits:
See USDA Rural Development – Section 504 Home Repair.
Property tax relief for seniors: Georgia offers homestead exemptions and additional senior exemptions, but rules vary by county.
New for 2026: Significant new senior school tax exemptions went into effect on January 1, 2026 for residents in Fulton County and the City of Atlanta .Check your local county tax assessor’s office immediately to file by the April 1 deadline.
Warning: Georgia’s pandemic‑era rental assistance program is closed. For rent help, focus on 211 referrals, local charities (St. Vincent de Paul, Salvation Army), and county‑level prevention programs.
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Table 3: Housing and utility help
| Program | What it does | Where to apply/check |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency shelter & Coordinated Entry | Connects you to shelter and case management | HUD Resource Locator, DCA – Homeless Services, call 211 |
| GeorgiaHousingSearch.org | Affordable and accessible rental listings | GeorgiaHousingSearch.org |
| LIHEAP | Energy bill help and crisis assistance | Georgia DCA – LIHEAP |
| Weatherization (WAP) | Free energy‑saving home upgrades | GEFA – Weatherization |
| USDA Section 504 Home Repair | Loans and grants for critical home repairs | USDA RD – Section 504 |
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Health care, Medicare, and Medicaid
- Medicaid for seniors (Aged, Blind, and Disabled): Helps with health coverage and, for those who qualify, long‑term care in facilities or at home. Eligibility is through DFCS; program is run by DCH. Start at DCH – Medicaid and DFCS – Low‑Income Medicaid.
- Home- and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) waivers: Georgia’s Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (often referred to as CCSP/SOURCE) offers in‑home help, personal support, adult day health, and similar services so you can remain at home. See DCH – Elderly and Disabled Waiver and call your AAA via the Georgia ADRC to request an assessment.
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Help pay Medicare Part A/B premiums and, in some cases, deductibles and co‑pays. See DCH – Medicare Savings Programs.
- Extra Help (Part D LIS): Lowers prescription costs for people with Medicare who qualify. Apply at SSA – Extra Help.
- Medicare counseling: Free, unbiased help comparing plans, checking drug coverage, and spotting errors or scams. Call Georgia SHIP at 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Option 4) or visit Georgia SHIP.
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Medicaid and no ride to a covered appointment, transportation is available through DCH brokers. See schedules and contact details at DCH – Medicaid Transportation.
- Low‑cost clinics: Affordable dental work is possible—some dental care grants cover cleanings, dentures, or urgent repairs. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide primary care and sometimes dental/vision on a sliding fee scale. Find a center at HRSA – Find a Health Center.
Tips:
- Review your Medicare Part D plan every year; formularies and pharmacy networks change. Use Medicare.gov Plan Finder and ask Georgia SHIP for a second look.
- Keep letters about Medicaid and renew on time; missing a renewal can cause a gap in coverage. See DCH – Medicaid Redetermination.
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Table 4: Health coverage and prescriptions
If health coverage or medical costs are a concern, these healthcare resources can point you to reliable help.
| Program | What it helps with | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (ABD) | Medical coverage and long‑term care | DCH – Medicaid and DFCS – Apply |
| HCBS Waivers (EDWP/CCSP/SOURCE) | In‑home help, adult day, respite | Start via your AAA at Georgia ADRC |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Pay Medicare premiums/cost‑sharing | DCH – Medicare Savings Programs |
| Extra Help (Part D LIS) | Lower prescription drug costs | SSA – Apply for Extra Help |
| Georgia SHIP | Free Medicare counseling | 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Opt. 4) — Georgia SHIP |
| NEMT (Medicaid) | Rides to covered appointments | DCH – Transportation |
You can pair Georgia services with federal programs for older adults like SSI and Medicaid.
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Transportation and mobility
For medical appointments or grocery trips, senior transportation help can keep you mobile and independent.
- Medicaid NEMT: If you have Medicaid and no other ride, schedule through the DCH transportation brokers. See DCH – Transportation.
- Senior transit and paratransit: Many AAAs coordinate local senior transit, dial‑a‑ride, or vouchers. Contact your AAA via the Georgia ADRC.
- Public transit by county/region: Georgia DOT lists local transit providers statewide, including rural demand‑response services. See GDOT – Transit Providers.
- Mobility aids and home modifications: Ask your AAA about limited home modifications through aging services, and check USDA Section 504 Repair for accessibility fixes (ramps, grab bars) if you own your home.
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Table 5: Transportation options
| Option | Who it’s for | How to schedule/apply |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid NEMT | Medicaid members with no other ride | See DCH – Transportation |
| Senior/AAA transit | Older adults needing rides to meals, shopping, or clinics | Call your AAA via Georgia ADRC |
| County/regional public transit | General public; often offers dial‑a‑ride in rural areas | Find your provider at GDOT – Transit Providers |
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Money, benefits, and legal help
The Senior Benefits 2026 guide explains how to combine state and federal programs for larger monthly support.
- Social Security and SSI: Apply or manage benefits at SSA.gov or call 1‑800‑772‑1213. SSI can help seniors with limited income/resources; see SSA – SSI. Review your retirement options using the Social Security resources that outline eligibility and benefits.
- Lifeline phone discount: Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible low‑income households. See Lifeline Support. Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ran out of funding in 2024; see updates at the FCC – ACP.
- Free tax help: AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide offers free tax preparation at many libraries and senior centers. See AARP Tax‑Aide Locator.
- Legal aid:
- Outside metro Atlanta: Georgia Legal Services Program handles benefits, housing, consumer issues, and elder law.
- Metro Atlanta: Atlanta Legal Aid Society offers elder law and benefits assistance.
- Long‑term care concerns: Georgia Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.
- Crime victim compensation: If you were a victim of a violent crime, the state may help with certain costs. See Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program (CJCC).
- Consumer protection and scams: Report fraud, price gouging, or scams to the Georgia Consumer Protection Division.
Plenty of verified grants for seniors don’t require repayment and can supplement fixed incomes.
Reality check: Georgia does not have a general “cash assistance for single adults” program. For emergency money, focus on 211 referrals, faith‑based groups, GoFundMe‑type community support, and utility/vendor hardship programs. Ask your utility and pharmacy about payment plans and compassionate exceptions.
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Caregiver support and dementia resources
- National Family Caregiver Support Program (through AAAs): Offers respite, caregiver training, support groups, and sometimes small assistive items. Start at the Georgia ADRC.
- Alzheimer’s Association – Georgia Chapter: 24/7 Helpline 1‑800‑272‑3900; local education and support groups. See Alzheimer’s Association – Georgia.
- Medicaid HCBS (EDWP): Can provide in‑home services that give caregivers a break. See DCH – Medicaid and contact your AAA.
Tip: When you call, have the care recipient’s information handy (Medicare/Medicaid number, diagnoses, daily needs). Ask specifically about respite options and waitlists.
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Safety and elder rights
If you face benefits denials or need advocacy, legal aid for seniors can guide you through the process.
- Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Georgia APS, 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Option 3). You can report anonymously.
- Long‑term care problems (nursing homes/assisted living): Contact the Georgia Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program.
- Guardianship and alternatives: Legal aid groups can help with advance directives and less‑restrictive options. See GLSP or Atlanta Legal Aid.
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Inclusive resources: focused help for specific groups
LGBTQ+ seniors
- SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 1‑877‑360‑5428; confidential support and referrals. See SAGE USA.
- National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging: Guides on housing, health care rights, and benefits. See LGBT Aging Center.
- Legal issues or discrimination: Lambda Legal – Southern Regional Office provides information and legal assistance in impact cases.
- Health care access: Use HRSA Find a Health Center and ask about inclusive services; your AAA can also point you to welcoming senior centers.
Reality check: In some areas, LGBTQ+‑affirming services may be limited. If you face discrimination in housing or services, you can report it to HUD’s Fair Housing office via HUD – File a Complaint.
Veteran seniors
Georgia veterans can look into veteran benefit programs offering pensions, healthcare, and emergency support.
- Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS): Free help filing and managing VA benefits, including pensions and Aid & Attendance. See GDVS.
- VA health care in Georgia: For example, Atlanta VA Health Care System and community‑based outpatient clinics statewide.
- Aid and Attendance/Housebound: Extra VA pension for those who need daily help. See VA – Aid and Attendance.
- Homeless or at risk: Ask about VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and HUD‑VASH vouchers. See VA Homeless Programs.
- Crisis support: Veterans Crisis Line 988 then 1 — Veterans Crisis Line.
Tip: Bring your DD‑214 when meeting GDVS or VA staff.
Tribal/Native seniors living in Georgia
- Georgia does not have federally recognized tribes within the state. Tribal elders who reside in Georgia may still be eligible for services from their federally recognized home tribe and the Indian Health Service (IHS).
- Contact the IHS Nashville Area Office (covers the Southeast) for guidance: IHS – Nashville Area.
- For cultural resources and state contact: Georgia Council on American Indian Concerns.
- Many services in this guide (SNAP, Medicaid, LIHEAP) are available regardless of tribal status if you meet eligibility.
Rural seniors and limited‑access areas
- Use the ADRC to locate mobile food pantries, dial‑a‑ride transit, and visiting nurse programs: Georgia ADRC, 1‑866‑552‑4464.
- See local transit options (including demand‑response) at GDOT – Transit Providers.
- For health care in clinic‑short areas, find FQHCs at HRSA – Find a Health Center.
- Home repairs and weatherization: USDA Section 504 Repair and GEFA – Weatherization.
Find companionship and group activities at senior centers near you.
Reality check: Rural programs may cover multiple counties with limited staff. Call early in the week, ask about mobile days, and request waitlist placement if needed.
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Applying for benefits in Georgia: simple steps
Before you apply, use our FPL eligibility calculator to see if your income meets Georgia’s program limits.
- Gather key documents:
- Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Georgia address
- Proof of income (award letters, pay stubs), bank statements
- Medical bills or disability documents if relevant
- Medicare/Medicaid cards
- Apply online or by phone:
- SNAP/Medicaid: Georgia Gateway or DFCS 1‑877‑423‑4746 — DFCS SNAP
- Medicaid for seniors/ABD: DCH – Medicaid and DFCS – Low‑Income Medicaid
- Medicare Extra Help: SSA – Extra Help
- LIHEAP: follow instructions at Georgia DCA – LIHEAP
- Weatherization: GEFA – WAP
- Ask for help if stuck:
- ADRC: 1‑866‑552‑4464 — Georgia ADRC
- Georgia SHIP (Medicare): 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Option 4)
- Legal aid (application denials/appeals): Georgia Legal Services or Atlanta Legal Aid
Reality check: Processing times vary. Keep copies of what you submit. If you move, update your address with DFCS, DCH, SSA, and your health plan to avoid missed mail.
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Resources by region (Area Agencies on Aging)
Use the ADRC (1‑866‑552‑4464) if you are unsure which AAA serves your county. Your local Area Agency on Aging in Georgia can connect you to caregiver support, meals, and case management.
| AAA Region | Counties (summary) | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Regional Commission AAA | Metro Atlanta core counties | ARC Aging & Independence Services |
| The Legacy Link AAA | Northeast/Georgia Mountains | The Legacy Link |
| Northeast Georgia AAA | Athens and surrounding | NEGRC AAA |
| Georgia Mountains AAA | North Georgia region | Georgia Mountains AAA |
| Three Rivers AAA | West Central/Three Rivers area | Three Rivers AAA |
| River Valley AAA | Columbus and surrounding | River Valley AAA |
| Middle Georgia AAA | Macon and central GA | Middle Georgia AAA |
| Heart of Georgia Altamaha AAA | East‑central counties | HOGARC AAA |
| Southern Georgia AAA | Valdosta and south GA | Southern Georgia AAA |
| Southwest Georgia AAA | Albany region | Southwest Georgia AAA |
| CSRA AAA (Augusta) | Augusta and surrounding | CSRA AAA |
| Coastal Regional Commission AAA | Savannah and coast | Coastal AAA |
Note: County alignments can change. If a link doesn’t answer your question, call the ADRC to be routed to your correct AAA.
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Disaster and severe weather
- Georgia Emergency Management & Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS): Preparation, alerts, and state response. See GEMA/HS.
- FEMA Individual Assistance (after a federal disaster declaration): Apply at FEMA Individual Assistance or call 1‑800‑621‑3362.
- Housing after disaster: Use HUD Resource Locator and GeorgiaHousingSearch.org.
Tip: Photograph damage, keep receipts, and apply as soon as registration opens. If denied by FEMA, you can appeal; see FEMA Appeals.
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Common roadblocks, reality checks, and workarounds
- Limited appointments: Ask about cancellations, waitlists, or walk‑in days. Request a reasonable accommodation if you have mobility, vision, or hearing difficulties.
- Documents hard to find: DFCS and DCH accept many forms of proof. Ask what alternatives they allow if you don’t have a standard document.
- Denied benefits: Get the decision in writing. You usually have a right to appeal within a set time. Legal aid can help — GLSP and Atlanta Legal Aid.
- Transportation: When scheduling doctor visits, ask clinics about telehealth options or mobile days. For Medicaid members, confirm NEMT availability at DCH – Transportation.
Community-based aid from local charities for seniors can sometimes fill gaps when public programs have delays.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I need food today. What’s the fastest way to get help?
Call 211 to locate nearby food pantries with same-day hours. Also call the ADRC (1-866-552-4464) and ask about Meals on Wheels or emergency meals. For ongoing help, apply for SNAP at Georgia Gateway or call DFCS 1-877-423-4746.
How do I report suspected elder abuse?
Call Adult Protective Services at 1-866-552-4464 (Option 3). If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first. For concerns in facilities, contact the Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
I’m on Medicare with limited income. Is there help paying premiums or prescriptions?
Yes. Ask about Medicare Savings Programs through Georgia DCH and Extra Help (Part D LIS) through Social Security. For free, unbiased counseling, call Georgia SHIP at 1-866-552-4464 (Option 4).
How do I get a ride to the doctor?
If you have Medicaid and no other ride, use Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) via DCH’s brokers. Otherwise, ask your local AAA via the ADRC about senior transit and check county options on the GDOT transit list.
My power is about to be cut off. Who can help?
First ask your utility for a payment plan. Then apply for LIHEAP following DFCS/DCA instructions. You can also call 211 to find local assistance.
I own my home and need a ramp or bathroom safety fixes. Any programs?
Check USDA Section 504 Home Repair (grants for 62+) and ask your AAA about minor home modifications through aging services. Weatherization (WAP) may help lower energy costs and improve safety.
Where do I apply for SNAP or Medicaid in Georgia?
Apply at Georgia Gateway. For help, call DFCS at 1-877-423-4746 or the ADRC at 1-866-552-4464. For Medicaid program info, see Georgia DCH.
Can I get help with property taxes as a senior?
Georgia and many counties offer homestead and senior exemptions. Start with the Georgia Department of Revenue’s exemptions page, then contact your county tax assessor for local rules and deadlines.
I’m a veteran. Who helps with VA benefits in Georgia?
The Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) provides free help with claims and benefits. For care, see the Atlanta VA Health Care System. For a crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then 1.
A disaster was declared in my area. What should I do?
Call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or apply for Individual Assistance online after a federal disaster declaration. Keep photos/receipts, file quickly, and appeal if denied. Check GEMA/HS for statewide updates.
What documents should I gather before I apply?
Photo ID; Social Security card/number; proof of Georgia address; proof of income (award letters, pay stubs, bank statements); and recent medical bills for deductions. Keep copies and confirmation numbers.
Do language access or disability accommodations exist?
Yes. DFCS, DCH, and the ADRC offer language assistance and reasonable accommodations. Tell staff what you need when you call or apply.
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One‑page resource list (Georgia official sources)
- Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): 1‑866‑552‑4464 — Georgia ADRC
- Division of Aging Services (DAS): Georgia DHS – Aging
- Medicaid (DCH): DCH – Medicaid
- SNAP and benefits application: Georgia Gateway — DFCS 1‑877‑423‑4746
- LIHEAP: Georgia DCA – LIHEAP
- Weatherization: GEFA – WAP
- Housing search: GeorgiaHousingSearch.org
- Homeless services: DCA – Homeless & Special Needs Housing
- Medicare counseling: Georgia SHIP — 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Opt. 4)
- Adult Protective Services: Georgia APS — 1‑866‑552‑4464 (Opt. 3)
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Georgia Ombudsman
- Mental health crisis: DBHDD – Access Services — 1‑800‑715‑4225
- FEMA disaster help: FEMA Individual Assistance — 1‑800‑621‑3362
- Consumer protection: Georgia Consumer Protection Division
- Legal aid: Georgia Legal Services Program, Atlanta Legal Aid Society
- Veterans: GDVS, Veterans Crisis Line
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About this guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- Next Review: May 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
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Disclaimer
This guide is for general information. Programs change, eligibility varies, and local rules may differ by county. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
